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File photo plane taking off from Livermore Municipal Airport. (Photo by Chuck Deckert)

July Fourth has always been an emblem of pride and community in the Tri-Valley area, particularly in Livermore.

Last year’s fireworks celebration in the city welcomed 12,000, 60% of which were not Livermore residents. Though the celebration’s popularity attested to the region’s interconnectedness and intended to provide an outlet for those who sought to join the fun, the sheer size proved to be more challenging than the city could maintain, according to a statement on the city’s website explaining the decision to cancel the fireworks show for this year and beyond.

Due to residential stress, emergency vehicle accessibility and limited resources, the city and Livermore Area Recreation and Park District have decided to transition from the fireworks display to a reimagined daytime celebration to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

The merriments will include the Independence Day Dash in Sycamore Grove Park, music and activities at the Livermore Municipal Airport and the Rincon Branch Library’s storytelling and parade event. 

The main event at the Livermore airport is set to take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Fourth of July and will feature a performance by Groove Objective, a musical group specializing in a five-part combination of Groove, Soul, Rock, Blues, Pop, and Fusion.

City Manager Marianna Marysheva expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming festivities in a press release from the city.

“We are thrilled to host this event at the Livermore Municipal Airport,” Marysheva said. “We look forward to creating a family-friendly atmosphere to celebrate our nation’s independence and creating yet another opportunity to bring our community closer together.”

Also at the airport event, attendees can expect a culinary showcase organized by Amuse Kitchen, where visitors will be able to try a variety of dishes from Livermore’s up-and-coming talent.

Aircraft displays will be showcased as well as remote-control aircraft demonstrations by the Livermore Flying Electrons in addition to other hands-on activities for families and children.

“Kids can explore and learn through interactive exhibits and activities provided by Quest Science Center, LARPD Rangers, and Las Positas College Veterans First Program. There will also be a petting zoo and magician entertainment for attendees,” city officials said.

Prior to the airport event, LARPD’s Independence Day Dash will begin at 8:15 a.m. for the 5K and 9:30 a.m. for the kids’ Fun Run.

View overlooking Livermore taken from Sycamore Grove Park. (Photo by Cierra Bailey)

“Sycamore Grove is one of Livermore’s jewels. LARPD is always looking for ways to share it with the community, “ David Weisgerber, LARPD’s community outreach supervisor told Embarcadero Media. “Having 800 acres of open space right on the edge of Livermore is one of the community assets that helps enhance the quality of life.”

“The best part is the sense of community and celebration, as participants of all ages come together to enjoy the festive atmosphere and kick off their Fourth of July with a healthy activity,” Weisgerber added.

To register for the race or for more information runners can visit https://www.larpd.org/independence-day-dash.

Preceding the Fourth of July celebrations, the Rincon Library will have storytelling, arts and crafts, and a children’s parade at May Nissen Park on July 3 beginning at 10:15 a.m. Children and families can expect a mini parade led by Rincon’s storytellers and small musical instruments that the children can use throughout the event.

“They’ll have so much fun whether enjoying the music, storytime, parade, or the fun arts and crafts,” librarian Nallely Cervantes told Embarcadero Media. 

Whether it be breaking a sweat in the morning or visiting the airport in the afternoon, the city of Livermore and LARPD intend to celebrate the new Family-Friendly Independence Day in a safe, all-inclusive manner.

More information about all three events can be found here.

The Rincon Branch Library in May Nissen Community Park in Livermore. (Courtesy city of Livermore)

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Olivia Penney was an editorial intern for the Pleasanton Weekly, DanvilleSanRamon.com and Livermore Vine during the summer of 2024. She was a rising senior in high school with the class of 2025 at Miramonte...

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